TURKANA – Turkana County has taken a major step toward strengthening economic development for both refugees and host communities with the launch of the KISEDP Integrated Management Information System (KIMIS), a digital platform expected to improve planning and guide investment decisions in Kakuma and Kalobeyei.
Speaking during the opening of a two-day training for government officers and development partners, Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus said KIMIS was designed to solve a long-standing challenge of fragmented and inadequate data. Dr. Erus noted that KIMIS will provide the relevant information needed for informed decision-making while reducing duplication of efforts and wastage of resources.
He added that the system is aligned with the County Integrated Development Plan and the national Shirika Plan, prioritizing agriculture, livestock, trade, transport, regional commerce, the circular economy, and emerging value chains. As a county, leadership remains committed to working closely with national government agencies and development partners to ensure both refugees and host communities benefit from sustainable economic opportunities.
Turkana County Commissioner Julius Kavita welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that the timing is critical given renewed economic activity in the region. Kavita highlighted that the recent resumption of oil and gas exploration, alongside emerging gold mining activities, presents significant economic opportunities for Turkana. He also praised residents and security agencies for maintaining peace, noting that stability creates an environment conducive for investment and resource exploitation.
UNHCR Kakuma Sub-Office Head Sateesh Nanduri stated that KIMIS has already compiled critical baseline data to support planning. He explained that information is now available on workforce skills, sports talent, registered businesses, and plastic waste volumes to support the circular economy, signaling Kakuma’s readiness to transition from humanitarian assistance toward self-reliance and sustainable development.
Department of Refugee Services Kakuma Camp Manager Thomas Siele highlighted the commercial potential in the region, noting that with more than 300,000 refugees and over 200,000 host community members, Kakuma represents the largest consumer market in Turkana and the wider region with massive potential for trade and enterprise.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director of Partnerships Michael Aupe noted that implementing partners will be required to submit additional baseline information before KIMIS is rolled out to the public, adding that the ongoing training is expected to produce concrete recommendations on market constraints, strategic partnerships, priority value chains, and long-term development plans.
County officials remain confident that KIMIS will help both government bodies and development partners track progress, avoid duplication, and target resources to areas with the greatest need. For refugees and host communities alike, the system is expected to open new pathways for jobs, business growth, and improved service delivery as Turkana continues to implement KISEDP the county’s flagship programme for integrating communities through shared infrastructure, livelihoods, and economic opportunities.
